"I choose Thomas Paine as the forgotten Founding Father," Olivia C. Juedeman said. "Paine wrote a pamphlet called "Common Sense" published on Jan. 10 1776. The pamphlet urged colonists to declare independence from Britain. It influenced unsure colonists to go to war and gain their independence. If I could go back in time and speak with Thomas Paine, I would tell him that he was, first of all, my favorite Founding Father. If it wasn't for him, the world would be a different place."

Juedeman said she thinks Paine would be surprised that Britain is one of our strongest allies, but she would not tell him "only six people attended his funeral .

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.. and he was not forgotten."

The grades nine-12 division is Voice of Democracy. Its theme: "Is Our Constitution Still Relevant?"

Students wrote their essays, then recorded and submitted them. The V.O.D. winners also received plaques, certificates, cash and VFW backpacks.

"In my opinion today, our Constitution is still extremely relevant," Armendariz said. "Because, even though it was written over 200 years ago, it sews the structure for our government which hasn't changed much. The Constitution states all of our laws and limitations for each of our branches of government it developed. Also all of the amendments are important to most people."

She said she believes the First Amendment is why freedom of speech is so important today.

"Even though it was 200-plus years ago, all people like to speak their mind without being punished for it today as just as much in the past," Armendariz said.

Both winners got to district competition. If they win at district, they can advance to state and national levels.

Academy Del Sol English teacher Jane Halonen won the Citizenship Education award. Halonen received a plaque, a certificate and $250.

Halonen has been involved in Patriots Pen and Voice of Democracy for six years.

She said she believes the Otero County community is very aware of the veterans.

"It's a very neat way to get the kids involved in the community," Halonen said. "At Holloman, the kids' parents are still in the military. At Academy Del Sol, a lot of the students go into the military. There's a lot of a connection to the military in this community. It's a good thing to see and the young kids appreciate it. One of the most important things is the kids being involved in the community in a positive way."Contact Duane Barbati at dbarbati@alamogordonews.com.